It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Gene Hlady, age 76, on February 23, 2025, in Brandon, Manitoba.

Born on March 22, 1948, in Fort William, Ontario, Richard graduated from Westgate High School in 1968, where his exceptional talent in baseball earned him a draft pick by the Minnesota Twins. He went on to attend Moorhead State University on a baseball scholarship, where he played from 1968 to 1973. Though his playing career with the Twins' minor league system was brief, Richard's love for sports and his competitive spirit remained a cornerstone of his life.

Richard's professional journey began with Beneficial Finance in Thunder Bay and continued in Brandon, where he was both a Branch Manager and a dedicated member of the community. His career saw him working with the Bank of Montreal and Labatt Brewery, where he held significant leadership roles from 1975 to 2004, including as Promotions Manager and Territory Manager. Richard's tenure at Labatt, in both Brandon and Winnipeg, was marked by his professionalism, leadership, and a passion for connecting with people. He also contributed his time to coaching minor baseball and serving on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers' board for three years.

An avid sports enthusiast, Richard enjoyed playing recreational hockey, golf, and curling throughout his life. He was an active member of the Rossmere Country Club in Winnipeg, where he served as course captain and enjoyed the camaraderie of his friends. Golfing during the summer and cheering on the Wheat Kings during the winter were among his favorite pastimes. He was never far from the people he loved, especially his family, whom he cherished deeply.

Richard's greatest pride was his son, Scott, and his family—his daughter-in-law, Terri-Lynne, and his two granddaughters, Mya (22) and Maci (18), all of whom live in Brandon. Richard's devotion to his family was unmatched, and he was a constant presence in their lives, offering help in any way he could, from driving the girls to their games to mowing their lawn.

After retiring in January 2004, Richard briefly worked with Big Rock Brewery before returning to Brandon in February 2018, where he planned to spend his final years, surrounded by family and friends. His love for life, his generosity, and his quiet yet strong presence will be greatly missed.

Richard was predeceased by his parents and is survived by his son Scott (Terri-Lynne), granddaughters Mya and Maci, his brother Bill Hlady and a large circle of family and friends who were touched by his kindness and spirit.

A Celebration of life for Richard will be held on March 21, 2025 at the MNP hall at Westoba place @ the Wheat King Game . The room is located across from the box office. Doors will open at 7:30p.m. to watch the game and the Celebration will take place at 9:00 p.m. after the wheat king game.

Donations in memory of Richard may be made to Brandon Minor Baseball, brandonminorbaseball@gmail.com (please leave a note in the memo line, In Memory of Richard Hlady), PO Box 50089, Brandon RPO Southeast,MB, R7A 7E4